Firestone Walker Brewing CompanyVelvet Merkin Bourbon Barrel-Aged Oatmeal Stout (2016)Oatmeal StoutCalifornia8.5%22oz, Single$16.99An aggressive pour yields barely more than one finger, deep brown color, lots of divots left by larger bubbles, retention better once it gets down to the surface, lacing is fairly wispy. The opacity of the liquid gives it a black appearance but it is more likely a severely dark brown, can't see any bubbles but if you look really closely you will see some small particulate suspended in the liquid. The nose is infused with sweet bourbon notes, caramel, oatmeal, milk chocolate and cola bean, a subtle roast percolates below, maraschino cherry fruit, touch of licorice, there's not a great deal of complexity but plenty of quite confidence in what it brings to the table. Full-bodied but for the style of beer wiry and moves with grace. Carbonation is slight to absent. Yet it still glides over the palate. Cola, chocolate, mint, cafe au lait, toasted oats. Unexpectedly demure bourbon element, no bite to it, more round and sweet vanilla, caramel. White grape, cherry, apricot to golden raisin fruit flavors, light and bouncy. The oatmeal more assertive after repeated sips, smooth and fills any cracks in the sidewalk. Zero alcoholic burn. Given its size, offers intellectual intrigue and a fully integrated drinking experience.5 out of 5